2002 Honda Civic 1.6L Petrol · RV02 AAJ

The 2002 Honda Civic remains roadworthy as of its most recent MOT on 2026-04-15, passing with minor advisories and no critical failures. However, the maintenance trend shows a concerning worsening pattern over the past year, with two failures in early 2026 following a clean test in March 2024. The recurring issues with tyre wear, brake pad thinness, and brake binding suggest ongoing neglect of routine servicing, particularly in the front suspension and braking systems. The vehicle has accumulated 186,554 miles over 24 years, averaging approximately 7,773 miles annually—a typical rate for its age. The MOT history reveals a consistent pattern of wear, with no significant gaps in testing. Mileage increased from 173,697 miles in March 2024 to 186,554 miles in April 2026, indicating steady use. However, the rapid accumulation of defects in the last 12 months, including multiple failures related to suspension, brakes, and lighting, raises concerns about the vehicle’s long-term reliability. Buyers should conduct a thorough inspection of the front suspension components, particularly the ball joints and anti-roll bar connections, which have been flagged as excessively worn in multiple tests. The constant velocity joint boots are also compromised, risking drivetrain failure if not addressed. Brake pads on all four wheels are thin, and rear brake binding may indicate caliper issues requiring immediate attention. Tyre wear on both rear and front tyres suggests alignment or suspension problems, and the missing seat belts and weakened webbing present serious safety risks that must be rectified before any purchase.